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Shanghai → Chengdu

2026-10-23 · live availability

Live availability for Shanghai → Chengdu could not be loaded right now. The timetable changes daily, so search above to see today's departures.

Search 2026-10-24

Shanghai–Wuhan–Chengdu high-speed line

A full-day run across the middle of the country.

This is one of the longest high-speed journeys in China, crossing the Yangtze plain before climbing towards Sichuan. It is comfortable but long: most travellers take a morning train and arrive in the evening.

  • For this distance, first class is worth considering — the difference over ten hours is more noticeable than on a two-hour hop.
  • Chengdu East connects to the metro; the city’s older station is closer to the centre but handles fewer high-speed trains.

Train Schedules

Train Departure time Arrival Shortest From → To from Class

FAQ

How long does the train from Shanghai to Chengdu take?

Journey times are listed for every departure in the timetable above.

How much is a train ticket from Shanghai to Chengdu?

Fares depend on the class you choose. Every quote on the results page shows the fare and our service fee separately.

Which station in Shanghai does the train leave from?

Chinese cities often have more than one station. Check the station printed on your ticket rather than the city name.

Do I need to print a ticket?

No. Chinese railway tickets are issued against your passport, not a piece of paper. Carry the same passport you booked with, and staff will scan it at the gate. Keep the booking confirmation on your phone in case a conductor asks which seat is yours.

How far in advance can I book?

Chinese tickets are released about two weeks before departure, and this page only shows dates inside that window. Popular dates and holiday periods sell out early, so book as soon as your travel date appears.

Which class should I book?

Second class is the default on high-speed trains and is comparable to a short-haul airline seat. First and business class add space and recline for a premium. On overnight trains the choice matters more: a hard sleeper is a real bed, a hard seat is not. Our guide to seats and sleepers explains what each one actually looks like.

Seats, sleepers and standing tickets explained →

Popular Routes

Timetable and fares read from China Railway (12306) and last checked on 2026-10-23. Prices include our service fee in US dollars.